A dear friend sent this video to me today as a recommendation and I really quite enjoyed it, especially this live version!

Specialising in Acoustic Americana, Marty O’Reilly & The Old School Orchestra are a strings-based band from California who soulfully mix together Folk and Blues. This charming blend contrasts delicate haunting strings with the strong tenacious vocals of Marty O’Reilly and the fusion is particularly striking; it’s quite evident to see how their sound has been compared to that of Tom Waits, The Black Keys and Ray Lamontagne.

The four-man orchestra have just released a brand new album titled ‘Preach ‘Em Now’ via Random Records which came out in early December 2015 and can be found here.

Today’s song, however, appears on their previous 2014 record ‘Pray For Rain’ and is titled ‘Captain’s Daughter.’ Unhurried and understated, this song is defined by a slow rhythmic pace and an eerie violin melody that writhes and slinks beneath the skin, winding its way snake-like down the spine clutching you with an alluring grip. Meanwhile the bass, guitar and drums transports you weightlessly into gathering crescendos, whilst the vocals cut lavishly into the mix. Listen above.

Check more of this album on their Bandcamp page here and be sure to give their version of ‘Smokestack Lightning’ a listen, it’s a great and unique rendition which strays far enough from the original to give it a completely original edge!